Events Guide 2021 Make this the year you run, trek, get online and take on the incredible to support soldiers, veterans and their families - ABF ...
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Events Guide 2021 Make this the year you run, trek, get online and take on the incredible to support soldiers, veterans and their families
Events Guide 2021 2
Contents (click one!)
Welcome 03
The Fundraising Army 04
The Cateran Yomp 05
Operation Bletchley 06
The Virtual Frontline Walk, sponsored by Annington 09
The Frontline Walk, sponsored by Annington 10
Running and Cycling 11
Our Supporters cancelled all my time in Ypres. This The Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch 13
is the longest time in 15 years I
When Mart was unable to travel have not been on the battlefields. The Medicine Ball Challenge 14
abroad to make his usual annual
trips to the WWI battlefields he 7 years ago, I was injured while Regional Events - find one near you! 15
decided to take on The Virtual on duty which had a bad affect on
Frontline Walk. Here is his story. me mentally and physically. After Sponsorship & Corporate Opportunities 19
this I set myself a challenge every
When the lockdown started, as a year. These have included parachute A Corporate Case Study - Annington 20
front-line officer in the police jumping in Arnhem, marching from
service I jumped to the help the Whitehall to Ypres in full Great War Volunteer Opportunities 21
public. My last period of leave was gear and cycling from London to the
at the end of January and I have to Somme visiting the graves of the 150 Contact Us 22
say that the past months have been a officers from my force who died.
struggle for all emergency services.
2020’s challenge was The Virtual
My hobby is acting as a Battlefield Frontline Walk. Working in London
Guide. Every year I spend three I have devised walks looking at
weeks in Ypres teaching youth groups several different subjects - from
about the Great War. Every year I the first blitz of WWI to the blitz
save up my time off so I can do in my own town it gave me something
this. In 2020, of course COVID-19 to focus on in these hard times.
Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 3
Hello and welcome to the 2021 edition of our Events Guide
There is nothing I can say about 2020 that Once again the Army have stepped forward
hasn’t already been said so instead of in a moment of national crisis, putting
looking back let’s look forward. 2021 is the themselves at risk to protect us. Whether it
year of connecting, of experiencing and being is in the poppy fields of Afghanistan or the
thankful for what we have. car parks of Liverpool, we should be proud of
everything they do for us.
We all have a deeper appreciation for the
sacrifices made by so many and the precarious The Soldiers’ Charity is there for them and
nature of everything around us, we have to their families whenever they need us. We have
make the most of every opportunity. There been here for over 75 years and will be here
is no better way to connect and to give back in 75 years time when Private Smith, at 18
than to take part in an event for ABF The years old today needs support in her old age.
Soldiers’ Charity, we will always put your All this is possible because of your support.
safety and enjoyment first and whether you
take on a virtual codebreaking challenge or Together for The Soldiers’ Charity
join us for our delayed 10th Anniversary Yomp
let’s make 2021 a year to remember for all Try your hand at Operation Bletchley - your
the right reasons. virtual codebreaking challenge! In 2020
it was shortlisted as the best virtual
fundraising event, and the best innovation
It has never been more important to in virtual events at the Charity Virtual
fundraise for The Soldiers’ Charity. Steve Oatley, Head of Events Event Awards 2020.
Below are some key statistics from 2019 – 2020 that demonstrate the huge variety and scope of our work in the last year.
£3.9m
Grants to
individuals
In 2019-20
we spent
£12.2m
supporting the
Army family We spent £12.2m The youngest We funded We have supported Around We spend around
supporting person we have 89 other charities the British Army 22% of our grants £15,000 a day
70,000 members supported was and other family in supported serving on grants to
£5.9m of the 1 year old organisations that 62 countries Army personnel and individuals
£2.4m Army family the oldest was support the across the world their families
Grants to other
Supporting 102 years old Army family
charities and
the military
organisations
welfare
ecosystem
Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 4
THE SOLDIERS’ CHARITY DO YOU HAVE THE DRIVE TO
FUNDRAISING ARMY IS GOING RISE THROUGH THE RANKS
FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH WHILST RAISING MONEY TO
WITH MORE FUNDRAISERS HELP THOSE WHO FOUGHT AND
THAN EVER TAKING UP THE GAVE SO MUCH FOR US?
CHALLENGE AND RISING
THROUGH THE RANKS! ALL RECRUITS IN ANY OF OUR
FLAGSHIP EVENTS START
AS A RECRUIT IN THIS ELITE OFF AS A PRIVATE AND ARE NEW RECRUIT:
FUNDRAISING FORCE, YOUR PROMOTED EVERY TIME PRIVATE
PRIMARY MISSION IS TO RAISE A FUNDRAISING MILESTONE
VITAL FUNDS TO SUPPORT IS ACHIEVED. HOW FAR WILL
SOLDIERS, VETERANS AND YOU RISE? ENLIST NOW AND
THEIR FAMILIES. OUTRANK YOUR MATES!
Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 5
The ultimate challenge, the Cateran Yomp is
back and this year we’ll be celebrating our
10th anniversary! Are you tough enough to
battle your way across 54 miles (gold) of
rugged, Scottish wilderness in just 24 hours?
You can also sign up for the silver (36 miles) or
bronze (22 miles) options.
Sign up with friends, family and colleagues
and experience an unforgettable weekend
whilst raising money for soldiers, veterans and
their families. Whichever distance you choose,
you will get to test both your physical and
mental limits whilst trekking through some
truly breath-taking scenery. Taking place on
the 5/6 June in the foothills of the Cairngorm
Mountains, this is set to be our biggest Yomp
yet as we celebrate our 10th anniversary.
JUST £99 PER PERSON,
OR £80 FOR SERVING/VETERAN
MILITARY PERSONNEL.
FUNDRAISING TARGET: £400
Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 6
------------------------------- HOW IT WORKS -------------------------------
Operation Bletchley is a series of virtual codebreaking challenges that you can
take part in anywhere in the world using your phone or fitness tracker. There are
currently three missions: London (50 miles), Paris (100 miles) and new for 2020,
a Christmas mission in Berlin (24 miles). Every mission comes with three levels
of code to choose from: Junior, Codebreaker or Cypher Expert. A real family
event and something for all abilities.
1. 2. 3. 4.
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
To begin, link Start walking at Solve all the Cover the distance
your phone or your own codes in your and deliver the
fitness tracker to pace to receive mission to secret message
your fundraising mission updates decipher the before time runs
page. and codes to crack hidden message. out to complete
when distance your mission and
milestones are earn your medal.
reached.
BERLIN | DECEMBER 2020 & 2021 | 24 MILES | 12 CODES | 12 DAYS
-------------------------- A REWARDING EXPERIENCE --------------------------
It’s Christmas 1948. The Nazi Berlin. Without road and rail
regime has fallen and Germany is support from Western allies, a
+ + + +
divided into four zones occupied peaceful Christmas seems bleak.
by British, French, American and
Receive an Raise £50 Raise £100 to Raise £150 to Raise £250 Complete the Soviet forces. Inside the Soviet Your mission is to walk, or run,
O.B. Pencil to receive an receive your receive your to receive mission on time
with your first O.B. puzzlebook Fundraising O.B. T-shirt your O.B. to receive your
zone, lies Berlin which, like the 24 miles across Berlin making
donation Army buff commemorative O.B. medal and rest of the country, has also contact with key officials and
pin badge certificate
been divided into four zones. decrypting their coded messages.
Registration £10. For more information and to register for Cooperation between East and West Can you crack the codes, and
this event please visit soldierscharity.org/operationbletchley has deteriorated and Stalin has deliver the final message before
or email events
events@
@ soldierscharity.org. cut off supply routes into West it’s too late?
Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 7
“A completely “Excellent!!
different Loved the
charity event - puzzles - they
I loved the way certainly got
the codebreaking my grey cells
added a whole going! The
extra dimension camaraderie on
and also that the Facebook
you had to put page is great
the miles in to too.”
get the codes
which was the
most motivating
thing about it.”
LONDON | JULY 2021 | 50 MILES | 10 CODES | 31 DAYS PARIS | JULY 2021 | 100 MILES | 10 CODES | 31 DAYS
It’s 1941 and the threat of route from Bletchley Park to the It’s 1942 and the situation in be compromised, so you must move
invasion is higher than ever. Cabinet War Rooms in London. You France is at boiling point. The through the shadows and crack
German spies could take down our must make contact with key agents Nazi occupation has cut us off codes along the way to avoid
telephone network at any moment, to solve puzzles along the way. from our agents on the ground, so detection. This mission is not
so we need your help to secure a Can you figure out the code and we need you to go behind enemy for the faint hearted. Your
new line of communication. Your deliver the message to Winston lines to make contact. We cannot success is critical. Do you have
mission is to test the 50-mile Churchill before it’s too late? afford for our intelligence to what it takes?
Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 8
FEEDBACK
FROM OUR
AGENTS IN
THE FIELD
“I loved that people from all around the world took part, and “It was the best run event “1st time taking part but
I learned something about the war in the Netherlands. The I’ve ever done. Uplifting, not the last. All round
Facebook group was one of the most positive, if not the best challenging and so well wonderful experience, we
part of my 2020 so far. A great group of funny and supportive presented. Got the whole will see you next year...
people. The highlight? Finally cracking Paris cypher expert and family involved and some we have already decided we
getting the message to Winston. Oh, and chatting about Winston friends too.” are going to PARIS!”
as if he were still alive!” Agent Kate Hall Agent David Merrigan Agent Kellen Craig (age 9)
and his family
“Bravo to everyone involved “It was just fantastic. “The challenge to run 50 “It’s a great combination
with the storytelling, The camaraderie and support miles in a month was great! of exercising the body
illustrations and puzzle- and being part of something Also, my 15 year old son is and the mind and raising
setting, as well as all big going on in the wider physically disabled so money for a great charity.
the team at HQ who answered world.” Agent Jackie Dodds I run the miles and we Keep it going. I reckon
every Facebook query or crack the codes together. it will explode even more
comment quickly and with It’s just lovely :-)” next year!”
good humour - they seemed on Agents Lou & Finn Eyles. Agent Helen Haywood
the case 24/7!”
Agent Fay Franklin
Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 9
This autumn walk 100km in memory 1. Sign up
of those who served in WWI or WWII To sign up there is a £10
registration fee. Link your
distance app or device
What is it? and prepare for October
Walk 100km in commemoration of those 1st. We’ll send you all the
who fought for us in World War I or II while hints and tips you need to
supporting the soldiers and veterans of today complete the challenge.
before 11 November.
2. Track
When you sign up you will
The Virtual Frontline Walk is a personal
create your own personal
challenge that can be completed at any location fundraising page. This is
and logged on your phone or fitness tracker. where you can record your
Discover the war stories of the people of your walks, add pictures, stories
hometown whilst also paying your respects to and share on social media
those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. too.
The 100km should be completed between 3. Rank up!
1st October and 11th November 2021. As you fundraise you’ll rise
through the ranks of our
Fundraising Army –
Join our online community to find like- so you can compete
minded people for fundraising support and with friends and other
encouragement with your challenge. supporters.
A rewarding experience
Raise £50 to Raise £100 to Raise £150 to Raise £250 to Registration £10. For more information and to register for this event
receive your receive your receive your recieve your
Frontline Walk Fundraising Army Frontline Walk Frontline Walk Mug please visit soldierscharity.org/virtual or email events
events@
@ soldierscharity.org
Remembrance cross + buff T-shirt +
or call 020 7901 8913
+
Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 10
Walk 100km, following in the
footsteps of those who fought
in WWI or WWII whilst supporting
the soldiers and veterans of today.
Choose The Western Front to commemorate
those who fought on the Somme and
Passchendaele battlefields. Sign up to
The Normandy Beaches to trek the coastline
stormed as part of Operation Overlord,
during the D-Day landings of WWII.
Sign up to The Home Front to learn about ............................................................................................................................................................................
the role citizens of Britain played in WWI Registration: £150 per person.
Fundraising: The Normandy Beaches and The Western Front - £1,250 per person, with £660 due by
and WWII, and how it shaped our local
31 July 2021, The Home Front - £850 per person with £500 due by 31 July 2021
communities. ............................................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................... ..................................................................................... .....................................................................................
THE NORMANDY BEACHES THE WESTERN FRONT THE HOME FRONT
..................................................................................... ..................................................................................... .....................................................................................
6 – 10 OCTOBER 2021 13 – 17 OCTOBER 2021 9 - 12 SEPTEMBER 2021
..................................................................................... ..................................................................................... .....................................................................................
A 100km walk passing the infamous beaches A 100km walk following the Western Front of Walk 100km of south-east England. Learn about
of Normandy, including Utah, Omaha and WWI. The Walk starts at Lochnagar Crater, the people of London, Surrey and Hampshire
Sword Beaches and finishing at Pegasus Bridge. the location of the start of the Battle of and the role they and the area played during
.....................................................................................
the Somme, and finishes at the Menin Gate with WWI and WWII. Hear tales of where our troops
the Ceremony of the Last Post. were trained, how the War shaped our local
.....................................................................................
communities and landmarks and stories of
bravery from people far behind the front line.
For more information visit soldierscharity.org/frontlinewalk or email Amy Kenyon .....................................................................................
on akenyon@ soldierscharity.org or call 020 7811 3960Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 11
RUNNING & CYCLING
Lace up your running shoes and step up for The Soldiers’ Charity. Whether you sprint, run, jog or bimble to the
finish line, the Fundraising Army is with you every step of the way. With specialist training plans and incredible
support, it’s time to earn that PB. Do it for soldiers, veterans and their families.
MARATHONS HALF MARATHONS CYCLING
BRIGHTON MARATHON VIRGIN MONEY LONDON ROYAL PARKS HALF MARATHON PRUDENTIAL RIDE LONDON – SURREY 100
12 September MARATHON | 03 October 11th April and 10th October Date TBC
............................................... ............................................... ............................................... ........................................................................
One of the UK’s favourite The most famous marathon in This unmissable Half Marathon Are you ready to be one of 100,000 cyclists
marathons - fast and scenic the world and a must-attend is one for the bucket list, participating in the renowned festival of cycling?
with the stunning backdrop event. The 2021 event is open taking in the spectacular Challenge yourself on the 2012 Olympic Road Race
of the sea in one of the for registrations. sights of the capital and course. Starting in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic
country’s most vibrant beautiful Royal Parks. Places Park and passing London’s best known landmarks, the
cities. The race gets bigger get snapped up fast so join route features the infamous Box Hill climb and ends
and better every year! up now! on The Mall. An experience to remember.
............................................... ............................................... ............................................... ........................................................................................
Registration: £30 | Target: £500 Registration: £100 | Target: £2,000 Registration: £40 | Target: £450 Registration: £30 | Target: £600
We have dozens of fantastic running events you can take part in Visit soldierscharity.org/ride-london for more
across the country. For more information visit soldierscharity.org/runs information or email us at
or email events@soldierscharity.org or call 020 7901 8913 events@ soldierscharity.org or call 020 7901 8913Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 12
The difference your support can make
Emily Wilkinson In the Army, Emily played the
position of Goal Shooter on the
Emily, 101, is a World War Two netball team.
veteran who was born in Stepney
in 1919. Her father worked at Emily’s favourite wartime
the London Docks and her mother memory is of meeting Charlie –
was a housewife. Emily was the young man who would later
part of a large family, having become her husband. He came
four brothers and three younger from Fleetwood in Lancashire
sisters. and was a Sergeant in the Royal
Engineers before transferring
During the Blitz, Emily recalls to Royal Electrical and
sheltering in the undercroft Mechanical Engineers. He met
of St George’s Church during Emily in a local pub where
German air raids. She her father used to buy beer
celebrated her 21st birthday for soldiers passing through.
there in 1940. Charlie and Emily married in
December 1944. Due to the war,
Emily served in the Auxiliary Emily was allowed to continue
Territorial Service (ATS) serving despite her married
between 1942 and 1945, status.
undergoing training at
Donnington. Over the course of After the war, Emily was
the war, she was stationed at awarded the 1939-45 Star. She
Chelsea Barracks, Aldermaston, and Charlie moved to Fleetwood,
Donnington and Reading. Her Lancashire, where their
mother was often unwell, and as daughter was born. In 1951 they
the eldest daughter Emily was moved to Essex, where they
issued a day pass so that she had two sons. Emily has five
could return home each evening grandchildren and seven great
to care for her. grandchildren.
Emily enjoyed wearing her Our charity is proud to work
uniform but did not like the in partnership with the WRAC
standard issue forage cap. She Association to contribute
used her wages to purchase her towards Emily’s annual care
own cap. home costs.Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 13
SUPPORTING ALL
MEMBERS OF
HER MAJESTY’S
ARMED FORCES
YO U R S U P P O RT I S N E E D E D
MORE THAN EVER
The Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch is I N T RO D U C I NG A N EW While the 2021 Lunch will be different WHO D OES THE LUNCH
back for its fourteenth year! Previous F O R M AT F O R 2 0 2 1 as we follow COVID guidelines set out S U P P O RT ?
Lunches have largely revolved around by HM Government, for which we raise
a delicious curry lunch on a huge scale, Rather than focusing solely on one funds is not and in fact is in greater We are in the third year of focusing the
accompanied by all sorts of amusing lunch on one day, The Lord Mayor’s need of your support. Employment funds raised by the Lunch on the theme
and entertaining activities to raise Big Curry Lunch 2021 is now a series is an issue for which the need has of employability. The Lunch will provide
funds to help veterans of Her Majesty’s of events spanning three months to ballooned since the pandemic began, financial support for veterans to take
Armed Forces. Through the support of raise funds and awareness and, with making it difficult for everyone to part in a programme designed to help
the Corporation of the City of London, your help, we plan to fund veterans gain employment but particularly for gain meaningful employment. This will
we have been fortunate to use the during this trying time. Starting from veterans suffering from psychological be in partnership with the King Edward
City’s historic Guildhall in ever-more 1st February 2021, the Online Silent and physical pain. More than ever your VII Hospital’s Centre for Veterans’
imaginative ways. Auction will be kicking off the 2021 support is needed. Health and their six-month Pain
Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch. Management Programme. The Lunch
Help our veterans and make a difference will aim to fund, as part of The Soldiers’
by joining us for our special three- Charity grant-giving, up to eighteen
month extravaganza of activities for the veterans on this programme.
For more information visit soldierscharity.org/lmbcl
email lmbc@soldierscharity.org or call 0207 811 3202 2021 Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch.Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 14 New challenge coming soon! One in four adults experience mental illness, and many more of us know and care for people who do. Talking openly about how we feel can help. This is where the Medicine Ball Challenge comes in. Created by two serving soldiers who have seen their families and friends struggle with mental health, the Medicine Ball Challenge is about starting conversations – encouraging people to speak freely about mental health while undertaking a 7-day challenge. The challenge involves cuffing a 3kg medicine ball to your wrist for seven days. It may not sound that heavy, but being chained to the medicine ball continuously for a week is a significant burden. The ball becomes a physical, visual and tangible representation of the invisible burden of mental illness that so many of us can experience. The aim of the Medicine Ball Challenge is to raise awareness and encourage people to talk openly. It’s about creating powerful conversations. Taking part in this challenge could be transformative; and will definitely help ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Combat Stress and Mind continue to support those in difficulty.
Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 15
Events We have a hugely varied programme of events, suitable for all ages and interests, that take
place throughout the UK and across the world. Follow our website links below or contact
2021 your local office for more information on the events featured and our other events and
activities that take place throughout the year.
Running Skydives and abseiling Overseas events
Edinburgh Marathon Festival 29-30 May Skydives We are thrilled to be offering these once in a lifetime
Great North Run 12 September trips to support our Charity:
You can skydive with us all over the UK throughout
Robin Hood Half Marathon 26 September the year, we have sites in the Midlands, the North Mount M’Goun Summit
East, the North West, Scotland and Wales; see our Challenge, Morocco 12-18 September
The Great Scottish Run 28 September
webpage for more details.
Shrewsbury Half Marathon (date tbc) September Wadi Rum Challenge, Jordan 2-8 October
Cardiff Half Marathon 3 October
Abseils Sahara 100km Challenge 8-14 November
Manchester Half Marathon 10 October Skydiving not scary enough? Then come and Great Escape Route (Pyrenees) Summer 2022
(Registration open now)
abseil with us too!
Manchester Marathon 10 October
And, we are delighted to be partnering with two
Scottish Half Marathon 26 October
Belfast, Europa Abseil 21 March organisations to offer two other fantastic trips:
Hope Valley Run, Hereford (date tbc) October
Brighton, i360 Abseil 16 April Kilimanjaro Challenge Summer 2021
Sri Lanka Tuk Tuk Challenge 5-11 September
To find out more about these events
as well as lots more 5k/10k & mud runs To find out more about extreme events To find out more about our overseas events
you can join us on – see our webpage: see our webpage: soldierscharity.org/ check out our webpage: soldierscharity.org/
soldierscharity.org/events/categories/runs/ events/categories/extreme/ events/categories/walks-treks/Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 16
Events continued...
Challenge events Virtual events
Bath Marches 4 April A night-in with The Soldiers’ Charity Serving soldier? Race the World – The Seven Continents
Adrenalin Shock 25 April Join us for a fantastic ‘night-in’ with our remote dinner, returns in 2021. For seven weeks Army Units, Regular
silent auction & entertainment and welcome some & Reserve, with much needed help and support from
PARAS’ 10 Colchester (date tbc) May VIP guests to your home 5 March their families and friends will battle it out to race the
Yorkshire 3 Peaks May – August Remote Golf (date tbc) May 35,000km distance. Teams are expected to blaze a
trail around the world to beat the competition and be
Born Survivor May & October Northern Ireland Virtual100 3 May – 22 May
crowned Champions. Easy? Don’t think so!
Snowdonia Challenge 25-27 June D-Day Virtual Race 6 June
Water Wipe Out 3 July Race The World, The Seven Continents – see right > There are bonuses to pick up along the way which can
(a special event for Army affect the result; you need to think smart to win this
Inflatable 5K 10 July Regular & Reserve Units) September – November Challenge. Don’t worry if your Unit can’t commit to all
Peak District Challenge Throughout July of our Gold Level seven-week event, we have Silver and
Armistice Virtual Race 11 November
Bronze Level races too. All Units entering at every level
Wild Warrior 18 September can compete to be crowned our fundraising winners;
Montgomery Challenge Throughout 2021
PARAS’ 10 Catterick (date tbc) September 1st Battalion the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment took the
Crown last year raising nearly £8,000.
ABF Dip 1 Jan 2022
To find out more about our challenge
events visit: soldierscharity.org/ is yur Unit up for the challenge?
events/categories/walks-treks/categories/ To find out more about our virtual Register now at: soldierscharity.org/
virtual-events or soldierscharity.org/events/ events see our webpage: soldierscharity. events/race-the-world-seven-continents-
categories/runs/runs-with-a-twist/ org/events/categories/virtual-events/ virtual-challenge/Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 17
Events continued...
Cycling Golf
Addington Golf Day, Croydon 19 March
Cornwall Golf 16 April
St George’s Golf Tournament, Lancashire 23 April
Bristol Golf 13 May
Bruntsfield Links Golf, Edinburgh 27 May
Wheels on the Western Front 2021, ‘Ride to Arnhem’, Our Wheels cycle events have been hugely enjoyed by
takes place 5-10 September. During this year’s those who have taken part in previous years for the Golf Galgorm, Co Antrim 9 June
commemorative cycle ride you will take on the full experience on offer: the routes, historical insights Dainton Park Golf, Devon 16 June
challenge of a 331-mile route that changed the course and the individual support available on and off your Gloucester Golf 13 July
of history and marks the ‘Battle for The Bridges’ of bike when you are on the Challenge; sign up on the link
‘Operation Market Garden’ during September 1944. below to experience an unforgettable six days. Kirby Lonsdale Golf Day, Lancashire 16 July
Langland Bay Golf Day, Mumbles 5 August
From Dunkirk we follow the route of the British 2nd South Wales Golf Event 23 August
Army from the Normandy Breakout to the landing “I don’t think I can remember a time
zones north of Arnhem in Holland; we return to the Golf Clandeboye, Co Down 18 August
locations of the US 82nd and 101st Airborne Division that I have enjoyed so much, nor
North East Golf, Gosforth 8 September
landings at Eindhoven and Nijmegen and the British got so much out of, nor had such
AGA Golf Event, Edinburgh 23 September
1st Airborne Division at Arnhem. adventure, with such a fun group of
Dorset Golf Day, Rushmoor 24 September
people, knowing that we were looked
To find out more about Wheels on the after by you and your support team
Western Front see our webpage:
soldierscharity.org/events/wheels-on-the- every inch of the way.” Sarah Join us for a great day out:
western-front/ soldierscharity.org/events/categories/golf/Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 18
The difference your support can make
Ben
Ben, 39, served with Royal ‘I couldn’t communicate
Anglian Regiment for eight with people, it was really
years completing tours of depressing. I became more
Iraq and Afghanistan. Of his paranoid about catching the
experience, Ben said You’re virus’.
always on edge because you’ve
got to be hypervigilant. What Before the pandemic, Ben
used to get me was the anxiety, attended PTSD therapy classes
the thought of being blown up’. which were vital in helping him
Losing friends and comrades cope. During lockdown these
also caused his mental health classes moved online. The
to deteriorate further. ‘2007 Soldiers’ Charity was able to
in Helmand was a brutal tour. help Ben with a grant to buy
When they are killed, you don’t a laptop which meant he could
have time to grieve for them. take part in his PTSD support
You’re moving on because you’re groups online and also keep
getting on with the job and in touch with his regimental
it’s only afterwards, that’s friends during the pandemic.
when it all hits you’. It never Ben is now making progress in
leaves you’. his recovery and hopes to be
able to take the next steps
Since leaving the Army, Ben has towards employment.
suffered from PTSD, anxiety and
depression, as well as dealing ‘I didn’t realise I could get
with the trauma of a difficult this help. It’s just amazing.
childhood. Nowadays, Ben lives Linking up with other soldiers
alone in a small flat and the and doing Zoom calls with the
isolation he experienced during therapist was amazing’.
lockdown greatly impacted his
already fragile mental health.Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 19
Sponsorship/Corporate Opportunities 2021
As we remain in a period of uncertainty, providing help to our soldiers, veterans and their families in times of need is more important than
ever. We need you and your company to help sponsor our physical or virtual events in 2021; or take part in them – perhaps as a company
team – to help us continue to deliver support during, and beyond COVID-19. The Soldiers’ Charity events portfolio gives you and your
company the opportunity to take advantage of a selection of sponsorship, corporate hospitality and employee engagement opportunities.
Sponsor Benefits Team Package Benefits
Choose from our range of events including The Lord ◆ Promote Health & Fitness Become involved in one of our events to showcase
Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch or the Cateran Yomp and Fun and challenging way to promote health values that translate across your business. For example,
show how your company can rise to a challenge and and fitness in the outdoors within your company the Cateran Yomp has plenty of employee engagement
demonstrate community spirit, whilst benefiting from: and further afield. opportunities for building team work, courage,
determination and camaraderie.
◆ Supporting the British Army ◆ Brand Awareness
A chance to demonstrate your company’s Be a part of an extensive event-related marketing We can also create bespoke packages tailored to your
commitment to supporting our soldiers, veterans and promotional campaign. individual needs; simply get in touch to discuss
and their families in times of need. your requirements.
◆ Showcase products and services
◆ Team Building Opportunities to showcase products and To find out more please email
Unique team building experience for employees services, including event-wide sampling kwildman@
kwildman @soldierscharity.org
to galvanise the workforce. and promotion. or call 0207 811 3201
“A great way of supporting astonishing people in the “Proud and delighted to have helped with such a In 2019 a small team from Annington tackled the
company of friends for the best Curry in the City” worthwhile cause supporting our armed forces.” Frontline Walk and raised over £43,000 for the charity;
Dominic Christian, CEO, AON, (Ticket Package buyer Martin Cavanagh, former National Account Executive, they then became the Headline Sponsor in 2020.
2019) Thrifty Car & Van (Sponsor from 2018)Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 20
Annington Case Study 2019-2020
Annington were one of our newest sponsors in our 2020 National Events Programme.
They came on board as the Headline Sponsor for The Frontline Walk and The Virtual
Frontline Walk. The timeline below shows Annington’s journey with The Soldiers’
Charity and how during a global pandemic, they generously donated £40,000 even
though The Frontline Walk event was sadly cancelled.
£43K+ £40K
Summer 2019 Winter 2019 Early 2020 June/July 2020 September 2020 October 1st - December 2020
Annington signed Upon completion The National Events Annington and the A difficult decision Due to the ongoing November 11th Annington confirmed
up five of their staff of the walks the Team approached National Events Team was made to cancel global pandemic and The Virtual Frontline their continued
members to take on Annington Team Annington with met to discuss the Frontline Walk due to to safely protect all Walk begins and support for The
the 100km challenge raised a staggering a proposal for proposal and shortly COVID-19; however, our participants and Annington are Frontline Walk and
of The Frontline £43,093.81. sponsoring The 2020 after they were the Events Team staff we made the Headline Sponsor; The Virtual Frontline
Walk – three did the Frontline Walk and announced as the worked hard to make decision to cancel The they have their own Walk 2021.
Normandy walk and The Virtual Frontline Headline Sponsor for an alternative ‘Home Home Front walk. staff registered –
two did The Western Walk. both events in 2020. Front’ walk in England maintaining staff We look forward to
Front. in the original event’s Annington continued engagement and working with them in
place. Annington to donate the £40,000 well-being during 2021!
backed this new event sponsorship money lockdown.
and continued to give and support the
“It was a pleasure to work with The Soldiers’ Charity team on the us their full support charity in these
Frontline Walk and The Virtual Frontline Walk. Every aspect of the and remained our challenging times.
event was planned – unsurprisingly – with military precision and sponsor regardless of
the changed format
the team delivered against that plan. Through the long months of
and location.
preparation, communication was excellent and no detail, big or small,
was overlooked. All in all, it was a hugely positive experience.”
Jane Harsham, Corporate Responsibility ManagerEvents Guide 2021 Back to Contents 21
Volunteer Opportunities
With the exception of a few core staff, our events are run nearly entirely by our amazing volunteers! Without you, we would not be able
to level the level of support to our amazing event participants, during our fundraising events and activities. We are always looking for
more volunteers to come along. You will gain new skills, meet interesting people and most importantly of all, you’ll be helping us to raise
vital funds to support our soldiers, veterans and their families. Whether you are helping to set up an event hub, handing out medals or
cheering on our event participants. We have roles available nationwide. Here are a few of the ways you can get involved:
Cheering on our London Marathon runners as they Supporting our Cateran Yompers across 54 miles of the Serving up curry to guests at the Lord Mayor’s
take on the 26 miles around the capital Perthshire landscape Big Curry Lunch
“I’ve been volunteering at the Yomp for years and keep coming back
to this momentous event. There is such a fantastic community spirit
amongst those who partake and the other volunteers. The charity
Get in touch at events @soldierscharity.org
events@ does such wonderful work for veterans and their families that I feel
or call 020 7901 8900 like so many others I am doing my wee bit to help.” Nik BarrABF The Soldiers’ Charity | Events Guide 2021 Back to Contents 22
There are thousands of events that you can take part in across the UK and we
haven’t been able to include them all in this Events Guide. For further details
on an event near you, please contact your local office.
Visit
Head Office
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity,
soldierscharity.org/support-us
Mountbarrow House, 12 Elizabeth Street,
London sw1w 9rb to order your free fundraising pack,
T. 020 7901 8900 full of ideas and support, now!
E. fundraising@soldierscharity.org
Scotland North East
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity,
The Castle, Edinburgh EH1 2YT Hipswell Lodge, Smuts Road, Catterick Garrison,
T. 0131 310 5132 North Yorkshire DL9 3AX
E. scotland@ soldierscharity.org T. 01748 874 127
E. northeast@ soldierscharity.org
North West
East Midlands
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity,
Fulwood Barracks, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity,
Preston PR2 8AA Chetwynd Barracks, Chilwell, Beeston,
T. 01772 260 356 Nottingham NG9 5HA
E. northwest@ soldierscharity.org T. 01159 572 103
E. eastmidlands@ soldierscharity.org
Northern Ireland
East Anglia
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity,
Building 115, Thiepval Barracks, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity,
Lisburn BT28 3NP Building PO
PO4,
4, Room 6,
T. 02892 678 112 Merville Barracks, Circular Road South,
E. ni@ soldierscharity.org Colchester, Essex CO2 7UT
T. 01206 817 105
West Midlands E. eastanglia@ soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, London
Building V5, Venning Barracks,
Donnington, Telford, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity,
Shropshire TF2 8JT Block 7, Room (G39),
T. 01952 674 369 Wellington Barracks, London SW1E 6HQ
E. westmidlands@ soldierscharity.org T. 020 3903 6030
E. london@ soldierscharity.org
Wales
South East
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity,
Maindy Barracks, Whitchurch Road, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity,
Cardiff CF14
CF14 3YE
3YE Robertson House
T. 02920 726 132 Slim Road, Camberley
E. wales@ soldierscharity.org Surrey, GU15 4NP
T. 01276 412 673
South West E. southeast@ soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity,
Bldg 750, Picton Barracks, Bulford Camp, Salisbury,
Wiltshire SP4 9NY ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is a charity registered in England and Wales
T. 01980 672 337 (Bulford) T. 01392 496412 (Exeter) (1146420) and in Scotland (SC039189). Registered as a company limited
E. southwest @ soldierscharity.org by guarantee in England and Wales (07974609).You can also read
